The antitrust watchdog Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) has signed an agreement with the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to promote fair competition and regulatory coordination in the telecommunications sector, in line with the Konektadong Pinoy Act.

In a statement on Friday, Sept. 19, PCC said it signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with NTC, pursuant to Section 18 of Republic Act (RA) No. 12234, which embodies the recently lapsed law.

Under the law, both commissions shall ensure that all industry players observe “fair, reasonable, non-discriminatory treatment in all their dealings.”

PCC and NTC are also mandated to eliminate barriers to entry in the sector to make it “highly competitive.”

“To this end, within 30 days from the effectivity of this act, the PCC and the NTC shall enter into an agreement to foster and develop interagency cooperation mechanisms,” the law read.

Konektedong Pinoy Act, also known as the Open Access in Data Transmission Act, officially became law last month after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. opted not to veto or sign the measure within 30 days of receiving it in his office.

As mandated under this law, both PCC and NTC must cooperate in information-sharing tools to ensure effective enforcement, alongside the promotion of fair competition in the industry.

PCC Chairperson Michael Aguinaldo said signing the agreement with NTC is a crucial step in advancing the vision of Konektadong Pinoy Act to build a competitive and inclusive telco landscape.

“By working together, we can safeguard the sector from the dangers of those that would seek to damage or monopolize telecommunications to the detriment of consumers,” said Aguinaldo.

The law seeks to enhance nationwide connectivity by making it easier for internet service providers (ISPs) to operate by encouraging infrastructure sharing and simplifying the licensing process.

In the same manner, new telco players are no longer required to secure a legislative franchise or a certificate of public convenience and necessity to operate in the country.

“PCC remains committed to supporting the implementation of the law through technical assistance, joint enforcement, and policy coordination,” Aguinaldo said.

Under the MOA, both agencies will collaborate on joint market monitoring, policy development, enforcement actions, and capacity-building initiatives.

The agreement also creates protocols for information exchange, coordination on merger reviews and investigations, and the creation of joint task forces when necessary.

For her part, NTC Commissioner Ella Blanca Lopez said the MOA underscores the importance of interagency collaboration in fostering a competitive telco environment.

“We are committed to fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory practices across the industry,” said Lopez.

“This agreement sets the stage for strong interagency collaboration and responsible data sharing, enabling us to fulfill our mandates and better serve Filipino consumers,” she added.

According to PCC, the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of Konektadong Pinoy Act are still being drafted by the government and industry stakeholders.

The law’s IRR is expected to be finalized in November.